What We Do
Research and Development
ACC’s Plastics Division has developed rigorously researched industry data and works to bring about constructive solutions for a range of environmental issues. Through these efforts, the plastics industry has provided substantial support for the research and development of recovery and recycling technologies for both durable goods (e.g., automobiles and business equipment) and packaging. The information learned from these programs is transferred to manufacturers, recyclers, communities and others to help improve the efficiency and the cost effectiveness of plastics recycling efforts.
In the effort to resolve key barriers to plastics recycling, we have sponsored extensive research on plastic bottle recycling.
Promoting Product Stewardship
All Plastic Bottles
Buyers of post-consumer plastics actively seek a reliable supply of plastic bottles – especially bottles made from PET and HDPE, which represent 95 percent of the plastic bottle stream. To improve the recovery rates of post-consumer plastic bottles, ACC’s Plastics Division developed the All Plastic Bottles program, which simplifies the sorting process for consumers. Today the program is practiced in 1,800 communities nationwide. » learn more.
Recycling facilities may not be available in all areas. Check to see if recycling facilities exist in your community.
Operation Clean Sweep
The proper containment of plastic pellets is important for the environment and a priority for the plastics industry. Operation Clean Sweep – a joint program of ACC’s Plastics Division and the Society of the Plastics Industry – provides tools and education materials to help companies that make and use plastics avoid accidental spills and properly contain plastic pellets. The program offers a flexible series of guidelines regarding best management practices that are available on the Web at no charge. » learn more.
Educational Efforts
ACC’s Plastics Division communicates with a wide range of stakeholders, including scientists, consumers and policymakers who are engaged in plastics issues. America’s teachers are another important audience. We help teachers to develop hands-on activities that take complex subjects like polymer chemistry and translate them into fun, exciting activities that kids can enjoy and retain.
Hands on Plastics™
ACC’s Hands on Plastics™ scientific investigation kits do just this. Popular with educators around the world, the kits were developed in partnership with the National Middle Level Science Teachers Association (NMLSTA) and were designed to help students and teachers better understand the performance and environmental attributes of plastics. To date, the kits have reached more than 25,000 teachers and millions of students. » learn more.
PlastiVan
We also support the National Plastics Center and Museum’s PlastiVan. This mobile educational outreach program visits schools throughout the country featuring the latest innovations in plastic science and technology. The van reaches students, teachers and the general public with fun, hands-on activities about the chemistry, history, processing and environmental benefits of using plastics in our lives.
Plastics Statistics
ACC’s Plastics Industry Producers Statistics Group (PIPS) provides relevant, timely, comprehensive and extensive business statistics on the plastic resins industry. Available for subscription on an annual basis, these statistical reports contain production, detailed sales information, and capacity and inventory measures for major plastic resins. With key players and nearly the full resin industry in the U.S. and Canada participating, these surveys are considered an authoritative and reliable source of information on the plastic resin industry. » learn more.
Automotive Learning Center
Plastics’ role in automotive innovation continues to grow as engineers and designers appreciate how these materials combine low cost with greater design flexibility. Plastics are being used in many ways, including high temperature applications under the hood and in impact areas like bumpers. To encourage further advancements in this key market, ACC established an Automotive Learning Center in Troy, Michigan. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to help automotive professionals learn more about how plastics make low-cost tooling and assembly, weight savings, parts reduction, and superior overall performance possible. » learn more.
Publications, Videos and Manuals
ACC offers a variety of publications, videos, information sheets and studies designed to help industry professionals, policy makers and the public understand the benefits of plastics and their role in resource conservation. Whether it is information on recycling or different types of plastics, we have something to address almost any plastics-related question or can help guide you to the answer. Most of our materials are free of charge and can be ordered on-line.